Owners of the Lion and Swan in Congleton have announced they have bought another pub.

Pear Hospitality has bought the historic Blue Bell Inn in Smallwood near Sandbach.

And they say they plan to protect the "unique character" and "alluring charm" of the 16th century pub.

Pear Hospitality say: "Following the successful renovation and development of both The Wheatsheaf (Sandbach) and The Lion and Swan (Congleton), Pear Hospitality are thrilled to announce the acquisition of the Blue Bell, Smallwood.

The Wheatsheaf in Sandbach (Photo: Sandbach Nub News)

"Having been loyal regulars for many years, the Pear family have personally held the Blue Bell very close, as many in the village and surrounding area have.

"We are very much looking forward to taking the helm and carefully guiding the Blue Bell to the next chapter in its long history.

"For now, the Blue Bell will continue to be the same charismatic, familiar country pub everyone knows.

The Lion and Swan in Congleton which recently appeared on 'Four in A bed' (Photo: Congleton Nub News)

"At its heart, we believe the Blue Bell is more than a business, it's a valuable local resource, a thriving community hub for locals and visitors alike and we fully intend to keep it that way.

"Autumn 2023 will see an exciting relaunch of the Bluebell with a delicious new menu, refreshed interiors and a passionate team, but most importantly – with the same charm, warmth and community spirit that you all know so well."

And they are inviting anyone who has an interest in the pub's future to come forward and they say the local community will be invited to the pub in the coming weeks to raise a glass in celebration and share ideas with the directors.

Sandbach Nub News reported in November how local residents had objected to plans to demolish a barn and replace with a 14-bedroom detached building at the pub. Read the story here: https://sandbach.nub.news/news/local-news/residents-object-to-plans-for-a-14-bedroom-plan-at-an-idyllic-country-pub-near-sandbach-158867

Local residents had objected to plans to demolish a barn and replace with a 14-bedroom detached building at the pub. 

Watch this space for more news about the historic Blue Bell Inn!